Gary Galayda was fishing aboard the 60-foot head boat Angler, based in Atlantic Highlands, N.J., with his father, Steve Galayda, when he collapsed. The man was reportedly unconscious and not breathing. A fellow passenger immediately administered first aid, and the Angler’s captain radioed the Coast Guard at 12:30 p.m.

A Coast Guard Station Sandy Hook 25-foot rescue boat crew arrived on-scene within minutes and took over first aid. A Coast Guard flight surgeon recommended a boat-to-shore transfer due to Angler’s close proximity to shore.

Galayda was taken to Station Sandy Hook where local EMS reported him dead on arrival and transported him to a local hospital.

“The Coast Guard extends its sincere condolences to Gary Galayda’s family and friends,” said Coast Guard Sector New York Duty Officer Richard Sullivan. “Our rescue crew did all they could during the rescue attempt and it is always difficult on our crews when this situation occurs.”